### Washington, D.C. - The Capital City of the United States of America

**Washington, D.C.**, formally known as the District of Columbia, is the capital city of the United States of America. Situated on the eastern coast of the country, it is bordered by the states of Virginia to the southwest and Maryland to the north, east, and south. The city encompasses a total area of approximately 68 square miles (177 square kilometers) and serves as the central hub for American politics and history.

**History:**  
The city of Washington was founded on July 16, 1790, following the signing of the Residence Act by President George Washington. The act called for the establishment of a capital district along the Potomac River, as a result of a compromise between northern and southern states. Washington chose the site personally, and the city was subsequently developed according to a plan drafted by Pierre Charles L'Enfant, a French-born American architect. L'Enfant's original designs, still evident today, featured broad streets and avenues radiating out from rectangles, providing formidable vistas and prominent points for the city's significant buildings and monuments.

**Government:**  
Washington, D.C. is unique as it is not a part of any U.S. state nor is it a state in its own right. The federal government has jurisdiction over the city, a condition laid out in the U.S. Constitution. The governing body of Washington, D.C., is the District of Columbia Municipal Government, but the U.S. Congress retains supreme authority over the city and can overturn local laws. Residents of D.C. elect a mayor and a city council, the latter consisting of 13 members serving four-year terms. However, unlike states, D.C. does not have voting representation in the Senate and its representation in the House is limited to a non-voting delegate.

**Geography and Climate:**  
Washington, D.C. is located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S., at the confluence of the Potomac and Anacostia rivers. The city's geography is characterized by flat, low-lying terrain, although areas to the north feature rolling hills. Notably, the city experiences a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons, including hot humid summers, mild springs, pleasant falls, and relatively cold winters with light snow.

**Culture and Landmarks:**  
Washington, D.C. is a vibrant cultural center, home to numerous national landmarks and some of the world's most prestigious museums and galleries, most of which are part of the Smithsonian Institution. Major attractions include the Capitol Building, the White House, the Supreme Court, the National Mall, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington Monument. The city hosts millions of visitors each year, both domestic and international.

**Demographics:**  
The population of Washington, D.C. is diverse and multilingual, reflective of its role as an international political stage. Despite the political character, it has an increasing number of cultural, ethnic, and economic communities contributing to a dynamic urban culture.

**Economy:**  
The economy of Washington, D.C. is predominantly driven by the federal government, although in recent years there has been significant growth in other sectors such as health care, education, finance, and scientific research. The presence of numerous foreign embassies and headquarters of international organizations also contributes to the economic profile of the city.

**Education:**  
The district is home to several prestigious universities and higher education institutions, including Georgetown University, George Washington University, and Howard University. These institutions are renowned for their law, medical, and business programs, drawing students from across the globe.

Washington, D.C. serves not only as the political nerve center of the United States but also as a symbol of the country's democratic ideals. Its rich history, influential architecture, and ongoing political significance make it a pivotal point of interest and importance in the global landscape.